Latino Policy Forum

Our communities are strongest when every family has the safety and support they need. Yet, harmful policies and rhetoric continue to create fear and uncertainty across Illinois. But we can take action to support one other. Join us virtually this Wednesday, March 19 from 6 - 7 PM for Safe & Healthy Living, a workshop designed to help community-based organizations and schools create welcoming and safe environments for all families, regardless of their immigration status. The more informed each of us is, the stronger we are together. RSVP today! https://lnkd.in/gW4w9Sdd

From preschool to college, Latino students and English Learners are the future of Illinois. This legislative session, we’re advocating for key investments in education, at every level, that reflect the brilliance and resilience of Latinos and English Learners across Illinois. Because when we invest in their education, all of Illinois benefits. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3CHbchu

We're excited to be a part of the 15th annual Latino Unity Day happening May 7-8, 2025, in Springfield! This powerful gathering brings together hundreds of Latino leaders, allies, and advocates to connect with policymakers, participate in important policy discussions, and build meaningful relationships across our communities. This is a unique opportunity to amplify our collective voice at our state capital while celebrating the strength and resilience of Latinos in Illinois. Will you join us? Tickets are selling out quickly! Secure your spot today: https://bit.ly/LUD2025 #LUD2025

Latinas are often recognized for their hard work and perseverance, but that alone doesn’t guarantee equity. We know that Latinas are earning degrees, entering the workforce, and starting businesses at increasing rates, yet systemic barriers like pay inequity, limited career mobility, and lack of healthcare access continue to hold them back. Dr. Noreen Sugrue’s latest article in Forbes.com breaks down the data behind these challenges and offers policy solutions to address them. Read it here: https://lnkd.in/giCziAze

Yesterday, President Trump signed an executive order aiming to dismantle the Department of Education. We are committed to supporting efforts that protect and uplift access to equitable education opportunities for all public school students and will be conducting a thorough analysis to understand the potential impact this order, if it is enacted, would have on Latino students in Illinois, including English Learners. Read our full statement: https://bit.ly/4iOhtYb

ICYMI: There’s still time to RSVP for Safe & Healthy Living! Join us virtually at 6 PM CT TODAY to gain valuable information to empower yourself and the communities you serve. Secure your spot here: https://lnkd.in/gW4w9Sdd

ACTION NEEDED: Two key bills impacting Latinos and immigrant communities will be heard this week in Springfield. We need you to show your support by submitting a witness slip! Submitting a witness slip is a quick and easy way to make your voice heard and helps demonstrate strong backing for these very important bills. Please take action today and share widely! Learn more about the bills, when they will be heard, and how to submit a witness slip here: https://lnkd.in/gDcUh_W2

Over the past few weeks, our education team has been visiting early childhood centers across Illinois, dropping off culturally and linguistically responsive toys and supplies as part of the Early Childhood Multilingual Learner Identification research project. In partnership with Illinois Workforce & Education Research Collaborative (IWERC) and Western Illinois University, this project aims to better identify and support young multilingual learners. Early identification and developmentally appropriate screening help children access the resources they need to thrive in their home language. Special thanks to Metropolitan Family Services, Gads Hill Center, Educare West DuPage, and Carole Robertson Center for Learning and all of our early childhood partners for their support on this important research. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gMEXJZEt

We have the collective power to make Illinois the national leader in immigrant rights and protections! This legislative session, we’re supporting our partners Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, MALDEF - Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, The Law Office of the Cook County Public Defender, The Resurrection Project, and other advocates in advancing key immigration bills that strengthen existing protections and expand resources for immigrant communities across Illinois. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3CHbchu

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and impact of Latinas and immigrant women who push boundaries, challenge injustice, and pave the way for a more equitable future. Their contributions deserve recognition every day of the year, not just in words, but through policies that uplift and protect them. We remain committed to advocating for policies that ensure Latinas and immigrant women have the opportunities, resources, and protections they deserve.